In 2014, she appeared in British comedy series "Toast of London" and two episodes of BBC's crime series "Silent Witness."

Because of her casting in "The Force Awakens," Daisy was unable to complete filming scenes for 2014's "The Inbetweeners 2," which would have been her first real film role. Her scenes were subsequently deleted.

(L-R) Actors John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac and more than 6000 fans enjoyed a surprise 'Star Wars' Fan Concert performed by the San Diego Symphony, featuring the classic 'Star Wars' music of composer John Williams, at the Embarcadero Marina Park South on July 10, 2015 in San Diego, California.Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Ridley says she landed the role by pestering her agent for auditions."I emailed my agent that I have this really weird feeling; I really feel like I need to audition."

Ridley felt like her first few auditions weren't very good. "but my last audition suddenly felt like something clicked. You're so desperate to get a role, but I felt like even if I didn't get it, I did a good job, I'd done myself proud."

Ridley says she trained for three months to get into shape spending five hours a day, five days a week at the gym.

There was also stunt practice at London's Pinewood Studios.

She also had to change her diet, eating plenty of protein. "I had this incredible chef," says Ridley. "He made shakes and bars. But putting on muscle is really hard. You feel like you're constantly eating, and it's not enjoyable. I ate a lot of fish. Spirulina became my best friend."

The hard work paid off. After watching one of the first trailers for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," Daisy's emotions overwhelmed her and moved her to happy tears.

Daisy Ridley as Rey in a trailer for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."Disney/Lucasfilm

Ridley says she's ready to be a different kind of role model for young girls. "[Rey is] so strong. She's cool and smart and she can look after herself. Young girls can look at her and know that they can wear trousers if they want to," says Ridley. "They don't have to show off their bodies."

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And if "Star Wars" doesn't work out, she's also a pretty good singer. Check out her mini-duet with "Star Wars" costar Oscar Isaac.